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The TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival is returning to Hampton Downs
28 March 2026
Bring the whole whānau for a full day of excitement with a huge lineup of off‑track activities designed for all ages, from entertainment and displays to hands‑on experiences that keep the energy high from the moment you arrive.
When you’re ready for some real track action, get behind the wheel and experience what it’s like to drive your Toyota, old or new, on one of New Zealand’s premier race circuits. Plus, if you're after an unforgettable off‑road adventure, don’t miss the first ever North Island Toyota GR Festival 4x4 Experience.
Registrations are now open for our Track Activities and the fan‑favourite Show and Shine, so secure your spot today.
Off-Track Activities
Show and Shine Competition
If you’ve got an amazing Toyota old or new, 4x4, car or SUV, then we’d like to see it. Whether it’s an impeccably detailed rebuild, quarter-mile demon or a high-tuned track weapon – any age, model and style can enter – as long as it’s a Toyota or Lexus.
Categories will be based on vehicle age: PRE 1980, 1980-89, 1990-99, 2000-09, 2010-19, and 2020+. Prizes will also be awarded to Best Original, Best Engine Bay, Best Interior, and the popular People’s Choice award.
Timing: Judging will commence at 9.00am and the winners will be announced at 3.30pm (approx.).
Your vehicles will require a Show and Shine sticker to be displayed on the windscreen to qualify for judging (provided at Gate).
GR Hub
Looking for a place to chillout and experience some off-track action? The GR Hub will have a range of activities and chill-out areas. We'll also have a fantastic range of food vendors onsite.
Toyota Parade Lap & Main Straight Photo
Even if you're just there to watch, you can still get on-track! Enjoy a slow cruise around the circuit, stopping on the main straight to line up all the cars for the now-famous TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival photo. The best part? It's free, and you can bring passengers along with you.
Toyota 86 Championship Pit Stop Challenge
Challenge a friend and earn bragging rights on who can change a Toyota 86 Championship tyre the fastest. Prizes up for grabs for the three fastest times at the end of the day.
Merchandise
Get into gear and check out the latest TOYOTA GAZOO Racing New Zealand merchandise. Eftpos will be available.
TOYOTA GAZOO Racing New Zealand Simulators Challenge
Wanting to kill some time between your track sessions? Have a go on the amazing race simulators and be in to win some cool prizes.
GR Parts
Looking to supe up your kit? The GR Parts team will be on site with the opportunity to purchase fresh GR Parts, including a GR Yaris kitted out with more than 20 genuine GR upgrades to spark your imagination and show what’s possible for your own build.
On-Track Activities
Track Plus
Your Ultimate Track Experience
Cost: $299 per person
Time: 9.00am
Gymkhana
Want to put your driving skills to the test as you race against the clock to become the Gymkhana Champion? Take the opportunity to beat the time set by one of our pro drivers while navigating your way through a short course.
Cost: $89 per vehicle
Time: 9.00am – 4.30pm
Club Drift
Want to take part in the ultimate drifting experience?
Perfect your drift technique and show off your skills over 15-minute sessions, with guidance from 3 x D1NZ Champion and Formula Drift USA pro Driver, Darren Kelly.
Cost: $259 per vehicle
Time: 9.00am – 4.30pm
Toyota Happy Laps Cruise
Cruise the national track in your own car (passengers allowed).
Join other enthusiast behind our safety car for a circuit of the Hampton Downs National Track.
Cost: $69 per vehicle, $15 per passenger
Timing: 1.00pm - 2.00pm
New to the North Island Toyota GR Festival
NEW North Island 4x4 Experience
Embark on the very first North Island 4x4 Experience and conquer the rugged Waikato countryside like never before.
For the first time, Toyota’s legendary 4x4 Experience is coming north, bringing an adrenaline‑charged, medium‑level exclusive off‑road adventure where you’ll crawl over rocks, crest hilltops, and farmland.
Spaces are limited, so registration is essential. This five‑hour epic includes a mid‑way refreshment stop and is fully supported by our Toyota 4WD experts. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the North Island debut!
Cost: $89 per vehicle
Time: 9.00am – 3.00pm, Sunday 29th March 2026
For further queries please contact the team at GR.Events@toyota.co.nz
Frequently Asked Questions
General
The Toyota Festival is the largest manufacturer track event of the year hosted by Toyota New Zealand. The purpose of the event is not only to provide a safe and enjoyable day on the track but to celebrate with Toyotas number one fans. You can expect to see a variety of on and off-track activities such as Track Sessions, Gymkhana and 4x4 activities (Sunday only) as well as a Show & Shine Competition. Or you can just come along for the day and enjoy for free.
The gates open at 7.00am – gate entry is off Hampton Downs Road and following the signage. The official welcome will take place at 8.20am.
Entry and parking to the event is free for everyone, and if you own a Toyota, you can park your car in the public carpark for free walk in and still be in to win some cool spot prizes.
Yes we typically have our Toyota Racing New Zealand and Toyota Festival merchandise available for purchase. EFTPOS is available.
Yes, there will be a variety of food vendors and coffee available for purchase. If you have any special dietary requirements, we recommend that you bring your own food.
Although you won’t be able take part in the activities e.g. Track Sessions and the Show & Shine, you are most welcome to attend and ponder why you don’t already own a Toyota. Spectator entry is free and there will be public parking available for your non-Toyota vehicle outside of the venue.
Yes, all Lexus vehicles are welcome in all activities.
Yes, you are welcome to however there will be areas that have restricted access. If you are interested in accessing these restricted areas please contact us. We have a professional photographer and film crew working throughout the day. All images will be posted on our Toyota 86 New Zealand Facebook.
On-Track
Once you register online you should you receive a confirmation email from us.
Yes, you can. Please notify the Festival staff at the gates who will direct you to the correct parking area.
We would suggest that you enter the slow or medium groups and to drive within your own ability. There will be free classroom sessions throughout the day run by experienced circuit drivers who will show you the ropes and the correct way of driving to achieve a flowing lap.
No passengers are permitted on track.
The track sessions are all in a controlled environment, and will be lead by one of our pro drivers in a pace vehicle. Please drive to the speed that you feel safe and comfortable with. We split cars up into 4 groups ranging from beginners, slow, medium, and fast. The Track Sessions are non-competitive, and it’s your own pride and joy you are driving. Look after each other out there. We want everyone and their rides to return home in one piece.
Yes, racing slicks, and semi slicks can be used.
No, assuming your car is roadworthy (i.e. has a current WOF and is registered) or is a race car with a current MSNZ logbook. The brakes will be worked harder than usual. We recommend visiting your local Toyota Store in your area for a check-up prior to the event.
For the Track Plus (full day) option, you’ll get 2 x 15 min (A+C) track sessions plus 1 x Gymkhana Session. You’ll also then get the afternoon session which includes 2 x 15 min sessions on our full GT Circuit. The Festival gates will open at 7.00am, followed by a compulsory drivers briefing at 8.00am. The first Track Session will begin at 9.00am and run throughout the day until around 4.30pm. Your Track Sessions are spread out during the day giving you plenty of time to rest and check out other things that are happening.
Yes, you are welcome to enter.
Unfortunately no, but you can still come along and spectate.
You do need a crash helmet in good condition. If your vehicle has a 4-point harness or more, you must wear a FHR.
A race suit is required (minimum of a single layer fire retardant race suit) required for most track activities. Covered shoes must be worn (no sandals or jandals).
Yes, we offer refunds until seven days prior to the event. Any refund requests after this time will be processed at our discretion.
Stay Updated
Keep up to date with news and updates by following our Toyota New Zealand or TOYOTA GAZOO Racing New Zealand Facebook or Toyota New Zealand and TOYOTA GAZOO Racing New Zealand Instagram channels.